SHOP FOR ALL IRRIGATION SUPPLIES ON SPRINKLER WAREHOUSE
SHOP NOW

How Dryer Climate Plants Could Be Right For You

The term xeriscape is derived from the Greek word xeros’ and scape’ which translates into the dry scene’. There is a misconception that drought-tolerant plants are dull and unattractive, when in fact many of them are vibrant and colorful. If you want to save money on your water bill, but still have a beautiful yard, xeriscape might be the new landscape for you.

shutterstock_1148819

More than 50% of your water usage goes to the landscape outside; having a xeriscape could reduce your water usage by 70% or more.

Principles of Xeriscaping

  • Plan
  • Plant low-water-use plants
  • Incorporate turf sparingly
  • Irrigate efficiently
  • Consider improving the soil
  • Use mulch
  • Properly maintain your new xeriscape

Let’s Look at 3 Regions across the US, which are the best and the worst for xeriscape:

Region I

Plants: Coronilla varia, Cistus Albidus, Buddleia Nivea, Abelia x Edward Goucher, Phalaris arundinacea Picta

Maintenance: Water if the plants look very dry and cover during very cold seasons. Hand water, or install a drip that will provide water directly to the base of the plant.

Region II

Plants: Bougainvillea, Buccaneer Palm, Live Oak, Swamp Fern

Maintenance: Make sure any unexpected cold fronts are tackled by covering plants. Drip may need to be installed for certain plants.

Region III

Plants: Butterfly Bush, Juniper, Texas Red Yucca, Oat Grass

Maintenance: Very low maintenance and a few drip may be necessary, Drip Irrigation

Planning For Xeriscape:

  • Look for partially exposed areas, and protected areas, and prep your soil
  • Draw out your landscape (need help? Click here)
  • Look for water-conserving and drought-tolerant plants. Water-conserving plants retain moisture rather than releasing it into the air. Drought-tolerant plants can survive bouts of dry weather.
  • Visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, this provides users with helpful knowledge of your region based on temperature.

** It is important to note that very rainy, or very dry areas are perfect for xeriscape because the native plants will thrive almost entirely without drip irrigation or any further assistance.**